Discover timeless tales with the Umatilla Literary Society's Classics Book Club, where we explore the enduring stories that have shaped literature. This term we will read a classic that sometimes gets forgotten, Ann Brontë's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall." From August 2025 through November 2025 we will read approximately 15 chapters a month. Discover this lost treasurer of 19th Century Women's Literature. The first five to pre-register at the library may check-out a paperback copy long-term, for the duration of the book club. A digital copy is available here: https://mylakelibrary.overdrive.com/media/433295.
November Discussion: Chapters 48-End
Focus: Helen's escape, her life at Wildfell Hall, and the resolution of the narrative.
Discussion Points:
Helen's Bravery: Discuss Helen's decision to leave Arthur and the radical nature of this act for a woman of her time. What does this decision reveal about her strength of character?
Motherhood and Protection: How central is Helen's role as a mother to her decisions and her determination to protect her son?
Redemption and Forgiveness: Discuss the return of Arthur Huntingdon and the complex emotions surrounding his illness and death. Does Helen achieve a form of redemption or forgiveness?
Gilbert's Role Revisited: How does Gilbert's understanding of Helen evolve by the end of the novel? Do you find his perspective to be fully aligned with yours?
Novel's Message: What do you believe are the key messages Anne Brontë intended to convey through The Tenant of Wildfell Hall? How relevant are these messages today?
Final Thoughts: Did the ending satisfy you? What lingering questions or thoughts do you have about the characters or the story?
Breakdown was suggested by AI: Gemini.
